Obituary of Ralph Potter Adkins
Ralph Potter Adkins, 86, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 27, 2025. Born November 22, 1938, in Waterbury, CT, Ralph was the only child of the late Mabel Eliza (Potter) and Albert Ernest Adkins, growing up in Naugatuck, CT. A graduate of Drew University with a Master’s degree in government from Trinity College in Hartford, Ralph was a career state employee working as Deputy Commissioner for both the Departments of Children and Youth Services and Mental Health. Other agencies on Ralph’s resume included the Departments of Public Health and Addiction Services, Administrative Services and Insurance.
A gentleman farmer, Ralph enjoyed his land, horses and walks throughout his beloved Salmon River State Forest. A lifelong lover of nature and environmental advocate, Ralph was a major player in a 1971 grassroots movement that ultimately prevented the building of a secondary sewage plant along the banks of the Salmon River in Colchester, CT. As a result of Ralph’s and many others' hard work, the Connecticut General Assembly passed a law to preserve the quality of water in all Class A rivers within the state. Ralph's observance and passion for the natural world translated to his children, instilling an ability to see the most intricate beauty in a crystalline snowflake, the meditative forces of a gurgling stream and the early evening joy expressed by a wood thrush.
Ralph had many friends and was an active member of the Asylum Hill Congregational Church in Hartford for many years. A man of good taste, Ralph sought out the best restaurants, and traveled throughout New England, spending much cherished time in Downeast Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire and along the Rhode Island coast. A romantic to the end, Ralph was a fabulous storyteller and avid reader. He could always be found with the day’s newspaper and a stack of books by his side.
Ralph was predeceased by his wife and constant companion, Marlene (Bakewell) and is survived by his children, Jennifer (Adkins) Blais, Douglas Adkins and Jocelyn Adkins and daughter-in-law Sheryl (Burke) Adkins. Ralph also leaves behind seven grandsons from his children: Jeffrey, Stephen and Kevin Blais, Brett, Quinn and Matthew Adkins and Jude Adkins. Ralph is also survived by his stepson, Geoffrey Bakewell and his wife Cheryl, and his stepdaughter Pamela Tierney and her husband Kevin, along with step grandchildren Patrick and Sean Tierney; Craig and Katelyn Bakewell.
In remembrance: “He was born with a gift of laughter and a sense that the world was mad.” Rafael Sabatini
Funeral services and burial will be at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. For online condolences, please visit www.mulryanfh.com.